I honestly cannot recall the first time we had ever visited Lyon Hall. I do remember going there within the first few months of living in the area, and since that was 3 years ago, I guess we have been there a lot. This place instantly became one of our favorites, and although we are ones to try endless places and venture out, we often end up at Lyon Hall. We have gone late at night for birthday gatherings, even later to end our social night out, happy hour post getting off of a plane from Reagan, and for brunch. So, we have experienced it all here and we love it. I wish it did not get so busy late at night, because I am NOT one to enjoy large, loud crowds. If only we could have the bar to ourselves, or at least just as many people as there are stools or tables, but since everyone else loves this place, I do not see that happening...ever.
Here is what I love about Lyon Hall:
Everything.
Okay, I guess you want specifics.
1. The Mussels. OMG. I cannot say enough about the mussels. I have them EVERY time I go, I can never resist. Just a note of wisdom though. Go during happy hour where the buckets o' mussels are a mere $10 instead of the usual $18. I sadly had to shuck out $18 this past time for brunch...get it? Shuck? Huh? Anyone? Okay, maybe I am not as funny as I thought. I have tried all of the mussels "flavors" and they are all amazing, but my favorite is the one with sausage and tomato sauce.
2. The burgers. Super Yum. They are big, juicy, flavorful and come with yummy frites. Again, go during happy hour when the burger is slashed in price.
3. The salads. Very yummy. Fresh, crisp and the perfect amount of dressing. My husband and I both ordered salads the last time we visited. Mine was a small side salad and he opted for the entree sized salad with the most deliciously juicy chicken added on top. He LOVED his salad, and that was coming from the guy that orders the burger every single time he visits.
4. The Cocktails. Umm. Yes, Please. Broken record here, but again go during happy hour. The cocktail and beer prices are good, enough to make you order a lot. We have always had friendly, although busy, but still quickly friendly bartenders.
5. Location. Only a couple of blocks away from the Clarendon Metro. When we used to live out in Vienna and did not want to head all the way into the city, this was the closest and coolest of spots. And if you do not go too late, perhaps during brunch or happy hour, you can always pop into Trader Joes basically across the street.
6. The Bathrooms. What is it with me and enjoying restaurant bathrooms. Hmm. Weird. The bathrooms are always clean and although I do not want to give away the cool surprise/secret to any newcomers to Lyon Hall, I will say that you will do a double take. There is a certain feature in the bathrooms that reminded me of Paris. So, if anything, just go to see what I am talking about. Oh, and the cute little dimly lit waiting area downstairs is always inviting while you wait for a guest.
7. The ambiance: The decor is Minimalistic, modern yet classy. Great music, although sometimes can be a little too loud.
6. The bread. Delicious basket of carbs and yummy whipped butter. No other explaination is needed.
This is one of the place we bring our out of town guests to and even our local friends that have never gone....and then they get hooked. Hmm. I should be a spokesperson for Lyon Hall.
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